Analysis
UNR's mathematics program stands out in Nevada, ranking in the 60th percentile statewide with first-year earnings of $46,365—well above Nevada's median of $40,494 for math degrees. That's a meaningful advantage when you consider that staying in-state often makes financial sense for Nevada residents. The earnings trajectory looks solid too, jumping 43% to $66,313 by year four, which suggests graduates are finding their footing in quantitative careers.
The debt picture is compelling: at $15,000, graduates carry about 30% less debt than the state average and nearly $6,500 less than the national median. That low debt load translates to just 0.32 times first-year earnings—easily manageable even at the lower starting salary. While first-year earnings lag slightly behind the national median by about $2,400, the combination of low debt and strong growth helps offset that gap.
The caveat here is sample size—fewer than 30 graduates means these numbers could shift significantly year to year. But if your student is considering math in Nevada and wants to minimize debt while maintaining reasonable earning potential, UNR delivers on both fronts better than its in-state competition at UNLV.
Where University of Nevada-Reno Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mathematics bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Nevada-Reno graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Nevada-Reno | $46,365 | $66,313 | +43% |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | $109,288 | $180,882 | +66% |
| Cornell University | $87,251 | $127,962 | +47% |
| Vanderbilt University | $103,812 | $125,955 | +21% |
| Dartmouth College | $108,255 | $124,017 | +15% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Nevada
Mathematics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Nevada (3 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of Nevada-RenoReno | $8,994 | $46,365 | $66,313 | $15,000 | 0.32 |
 University of Nevada-Las VegasLas Vegas | $9,142 | $34,624 | — | $24,853 | 0.72 |
| National Median | — | $48,772 | — | $21,500 | 0.44 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with mathematics graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Mathematicians
Statisticians
Biostatisticians
Mathematical Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Mathematical Science Occupations, All Other
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of Nevada-Reno, approximately 24% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 28 graduates with reported earnings and 35 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.